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Luna Moth
(John Obermeyer, Purdue University)

Common Name: Luna Moth

Order: Lepidoptera

Family: Saturniidae

Pest Status: Luna moths are not considered pests.

Appearance: An adult luna moth is very large (4 to 5-inch wing), and has pale-green wings, each with a transparent eyespot. The outer margins of the wings are either pink or yellow. The hindwings have unique long, curving tails.

Life Cycle: Females lay their eggs on the undersides of leaves. Eggs hatch after one to two weeks. The larvae go through five instars before forming cocoons. Pupation takes approximately two weeks.

Where to Collect: Luna moths can be found in forested areas of North America; they prefer deciduous woodlands. Adults usually fly at night and are often attracted to large lights at constructions sites or athletic fields.